NBA Trade Rumors: Only Two Teams Want Ben Simmons — But Does He?

Shawn

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Post on Sep 09, 2025

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NBA Trade Rumors: Only Two Teams Want Ben Simmons — But Does He?

The NBA offseason is in full swing, and while some stars have found new homes, the Ben Simmons saga continues to dominate headlines. Recent reports suggest that only two teams are seriously pursuing the disgruntled All-Star, leaving his future hanging precariously in the balance. But the question remains: does Ben Simmons even want to be traded, or is he content to remain in limbo?

This situation is far more complex than a simple trade negotiation. It's a tangled web of contractual obligations, player desires, and franchise ambitions. Let's delve into the details.

The Short List: Who Wants Ben Simmons?

According to multiple sources, the two teams actively pursuing Simmons are the Portland Trail Blazers and the Washington Wizards. Both franchises have different needs and offer varying opportunities for Simmons.

• Portland Trail Blazers: Portland needs a playmaker and defensive anchor. Simmons, despite his offensive inconsistencies, could theoretically fill both roles. Pairing him with Damian Lillard could create a formidable backcourt, but it also depends heavily on Simmons' willingness to embrace a supporting role and consistently contribute on offense. The Blazers' young talent also presents an intriguing environment for growth.

• Washington Wizards: Washington, on the other hand, seems to be in a rebuilding phase. Acquiring Simmons would represent a significant investment, suggesting they view him as a cornerstone piece. However, the Wizards' roster construction might not be ideal for maximizing Simmons' strengths. The fit alongside Bradley Beal, if he remains in Washington, remains uncertain.

The Missing Piece: Ben Simmons' Desire

The biggest unknown remains Simmons' own aspirations. Following his disappointing playoff performance and subsequent fallout with the Philadelphia 76ers, his mental fortitude and commitment to the game have been heavily scrutinized. Does he want to resurrect his career with a fresh start? Or is he content to remain in Philadelphia, collecting a hefty paycheck while potentially sacrificing his prime playing years?

Several reports indicate that Simmons may prefer to remain in Philadelphia, at least for the time being, potentially opting for a long-term strategy that prioritizes his personal well-being. This complicates matters significantly, as any trade requires his cooperation and a willingness to commit to a new team.

What Happens Next?

The Ben Simmons situation remains fluid. The limited number of interested teams significantly reduces the Sixers’ leverage. This could force them to accept a less favorable trade than initially hoped for, or potentially extend the saga into next season. The deadline for a resolution isn't imminent, but the longer it drags on, the more damaging it could be for Simmons’ career trajectory and the teams involved.

The upcoming season will be crucial for Simmons. Regardless of whether he stays in Philadelphia or gets traded, he needs to prove he can regain his confidence and become a consistent contributor. His future, and the future of at least two NBA franchises, hangs in the balance.

Keywords: Ben Simmons, NBA trade rumors, NBA trade deadline, Portland Trail Blazers, Washington Wizards, Philadelphia 76ers, NBA offseason, basketball trade, NBA player, basketball news

Call to Action: What do you think will happen with Ben Simmons? Share your predictions in the comments below!